About Avis Senior

In 2011, Avis Senior BHSAI turned her back on teaching horse riders, focusing on bringing horses back into physical, emotional and spiritual balance with the help of various energy-based therapies. Her time is now better spent in the re-education and awakening of the guardians of horses and other non-human animals to our natural empathy and mindful regard of all animals through her courses, workshops and Mentorships. Avis is highly qualified and experienced in Energy Healing, Animal Communication, Mindfulness, Neuro-linguistic Programming, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EFT & TFT (Emotional Freedom Technique & Thought Field Therapy), Life Coaching, Law of Attraction, Hypnosis, Belief Clearing, and Ho'oponpono. Bringing awareness to the truth of who we are and what we can achieve when we let go of our own past and archaic traditions and beliefs is her passion and her mission.

You clearly want to do your best

You are reading this piece, so you clearly want to do the best for the animals in your care. But how do you know what is in their best interests? Did you read it somewhere? did you find your knowledge via a professional, an expert? Where did those professionals and experts find their information and those that came before them? Are you sure you’re not confusing animal welfare with human welfare? Could it actually be a case of animal welfare vs human welfare?

Let’s imagine we’ve never before seen, for example, a horse. All of a sudden the horse appears from nowhere – he is to all intents and purposes an alien. We know nothing about this alien:

What is it?

How does it see? Does it breathe? Does it eat? What does it eat? How does it eat? Is it a threat? Is it poisonous? Can it communicate? How does it communicate? Will it survive on our planet, and in our personal environment? Does it have its own language? Are we capable of learning and understanding that language so that we can learn more about this alien?

Our own survival instinct kicks in; we tread very carefully while physically examining and testing the alien.

We then begin a process of bringing the alien under control because we are human; we are elite beings. The welfare of the alien might at this point be the last thing on our minds; our own welfare would be a priority.

Our natural ability to nurture kicks in

So, we’ve decided that the alien is not a threat; it is, in fact, quite a pushover. We have also become rather attached to this being. During this time, we’ve noticed that the alien likes to eat grass and interact with us. Our natural ability to nurture kicks in; we feel the need to protect it at all costs. We actually have strong feelings for this alien which we’ve decided to call a horse.

We can manipulate

We very quickly notice the physical strength and speed, and how we can manipulate both for our benefit, while having a strong regard for our own personal safety and welfare.

We haven’t learned how the horse communicates; in fact, we haven’t given it much thought because we’ve learned to manage our handling and care of him without his input. His little nuances – such as lifting his back leg, and flattening his ears need nothing more than a reprimand from the handler. He’s a quick learner!

Supplied with a 12 x 12 stable

However, our emotional attachment to the horse also offers awareness to the consideration of his welfare.

We’ve learned that the horse almost constantly picks at the grass, and wanders throughout the day to all corners of the field that is surrounded by the fence that keeps him safe. Winter is here; we must preserve the field for spring, and to keep up with the safety and welfare of the horse we have supplied him with a snug 12×12 stable where he will have three feeds a day, and a hanging hay net. If the weather permits he can go in the menage to let off a bit of steam. He will get some exercise when we’re out for our daily hack.

His coat is so thick

Ugh, the horse gets full of mud in the winter and his coat is so thick he sweats so we clip him – anything from an underbelly clip to a full clip depending on our equestrian winter agenda. Big sigh – ahh yes, that makes things much easier for us and it’s great for the horse because he won’t unduly sweat – not even with the top-notch rug he now ‘proudly wears!

It’s time for change

It’s time for change; it’s time to turn our attention to what is actually in the highest interests of the horse, focusing on who the horse is as a sentient bio-energetic being, and not on our perception of what constitutes equine welfare.

Where do you stand on your perception, bearing in mind your answer will be given according to your current knowledge surrounding the aspects of the horse that go far deeper than the physical animal you see before you?

We are the aliens

Horses, along with other species of animals in our care make often futile attempts to communicate with us; they want to show us how to be better humans. You and me – we are the aliens, the non-humans we care for see right through us. Most humans don’t know who we are; they don’t understand that we are far more than the person we see in the mirror. If we can’t understand that, how can we ever understand the non-humans in our care and offer the utmost welfare considerations? So for now, many humans will continue to provide ‘human welfare’ considerations leaving the horse vulnerable to inadvertent wrongly placed human interaction.

An abusive past

I visited this horse a little while ago. He’d had an abusive past, and elements of his new home were causing memory triggers resulting in ever-deepening trauma. Luckily for him, his person had the foresight to look deeper than the physical behaviours. She sensed there was something deeper.

When we first met, the horse was standing at the back of his stable trembling with fear at the sight of the resident gamekeeper, visible some distance away – a strong reminder of the person who had abused him. He was rigid, feet firmly planted, head high, nostrils wide and ears stark. The fear in his eyes was clear.

A whisper – “Thank you.”

Although the horse gave his permission for me to help him he initially wanted me to keep my distance. Then, bit by bit the horse made his way towards the front of the stable where I was supporting him through my own energy and intention.

At the end of what was a deep emotional healing session for everyone, he bowed his head, touching my knees with his nose; I then heard his gentle whisper –

“Thank you..”

Signs of emotional release

The video clip below was taken after I’d exited the stable. He still valued my support as his head appeared over the stable door. He had already shown signs of release such as yawning, a glazed look in the eyes, deep sighs, stomach rumbling..

As I watched and supported him now, the horse, in the safe space I had created for him felt confident in allowing the processing and releasing of the deepest trapped energies that had kept him stuck in his abused past.

Notice his eyes – they are neither open nor closed. His ears are no longer stark. His complete trust in me to keep him safe is clear.

We lessen the risk

Working with energy allows us to reach down to the source of an issue where energy blocks can accumulate. In clearing the blocked energies we lessen the risk of the physical manifestations of adverse behaviours and physical ailments.

They deserve recognition

Being recognised as energetic beings is as crucial to all non-human animals as the formal recognition of their continued sentient status we currently strive for. Horses are energy beings.

In spite of being abused by humans, horses must trust us to help them because they want us to learn; they need us to learn. They want to teach us in the hope we will one day see ourselves in them.

We are no different in our make-up to these beautiful creatures; it is only our human nature that sets us apart. We will achieve the deepest relationship and best health of ourselves, horses and all the other non-humans we share our lives with only when we can recognise who we all are as energetic beings. To ignore and dismiss this fact is an injustice to ourselves and to the animals we care for.

The placebo effect

The power of Universal Energy continues to be questioned by many. ‘Mainstream’ professionals consider ‘Reiki’ to be merely a placebo effect. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons classifies Reiki as Spiritual / Faith healing.

So what about our non-human counterparts? They know nothing of the placebo effect or faith healing. I use various energy-based methods; all have a profound positive effect purely and simply because energy is intrinsic to our survival as energy beings.

Think outside the box

I see time and time again the vast improvement in the emotional state of animals that very often also leads to the disappearance of any accompanying physical symptoms. Sometimes we have to think outside of the box. Just because we don’t understand something or we can’t see it, it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.

If you acknowledge reiki, you must also accept that you and the animals in your care are essentially made up of energy. You are far more than the physical body you see every day when you look in the mirror. The animals in your care go far deeper than the physical being that greets you.

Don’t let your potential go to waste

You have the innate ability to maintain the balance of your general health, not to mention all other areas of your life, and that of the animals in your care simply by tapping into your internal energy systems. We must always in the first instance consult with our GP’s and Vets where an injury or illness is present. However, mainstream veterinary practice does not generally deal with the emotional aspects of issues. This is where Reiki and other energy based therapies are in their own league, not only as an accompaniment to physical healing but to ousting the deep emotional trauma that results from illness, injury, abuse, grief, loss, and all the other emotions that humans feel.

If you are skeptical, it is only your limiting beliefs and outdated information that prevents you from growing, and stepping out of your comfort zone in order to achieve your true amazing potential.

Take a peek, I dare you

Take a look at the video below of this beautiful soul releasing the last of the blocked energies that have kept him stuck. Don’t merely watch with your eyes; focus through your heart and feel him.

If you would like to know more about who you and the non-humans in your life really are, please visit our Facebook Closed Group Page, ‘Animal Intuitive Dynamics‘. Take a peek inside the complementary files and videos. Help, support and advice is here whenever you are ready to take the first step.

Why wouldn’t you?

The longer I work in the fields of telepathic animal communication and universal energies, the more determined I am to show other human beings just what you are capable of. Why wouldn’t you want to ask a sentient non-human animal in your care what their wants and needs are rather than second guess? Why wouldn’t you want the honour of helping them to leave a physical body that no longer serves them when they request it from you? Why wouldn’t you want to know how they are really feeling?

I can’t deny

It takes time, work, commitment, patience and lots of practice to connect with non-human sentients on a telepathic, intuitive and energetic level, rather than the better known physical and vocal level; but boy, is it worth it!

I have attached a short PDF to give you a flavour of what you can achieve. Just click on this link to read: telepathicAC

If you are then interested in learning more about the power of the animal core energy connection, please click on the following link where you will receive a warm welcome in my Facebook Group ‘Animal Intuitive Dynamics’

Do you want the knowledge and foresight to make a difference?

The membership is free, with lots of complimentary tutorials including the powerful ‘Animal Core Energy Connection Series – The Foundations’ course. It currently contains 25 PDF lessons (to be converted to a more professional video/online course in 2018). The PDF’s are very short, basic, yet powerful if you take them seriously. They are a pre-cursur to the Level 1 Course of the Series that is currently in its creation and will be available in the spring of 2018 when I will take my students into new and exciting realms of connection with our non-human counterparts.

Here are just a few testimonials:

Bridie said – Hi, I would like to say that the course is explained fully, easy to follow, quite comprehensive and hugely beneficial.

Theresa said – I’m loving this course so far. It is so well presented making it easy to understand and therefore easier to put into practice. It has really reinforced what I already ‘felt’ about animal communication and enabled me to gain a much clearer understanding of what my horse has always been trying to tell me – if only I had listened before! It has been so inspiring. Thanks Avis.

Crissy said – A very inspiring course, easy to follow. I’m very happy with my progress. Feels right. My communication with all the horses on my ranch has gone to a new level.

Cheryl said – I am working on the course at my own pace, and it is very well written and full of wonderful exercises. Each stage is not at all wordy or too long.. just right! Having watched some of Avis’ videos, I can hear her say each chapter and brings it to life!

We have a responsibility

Under current EU law, animals are recognised as sentient beings – they are aware of their feelings and emotions.

Countries outside of the EU are also now recognising this scientifically proven and very important fact. Being aware of the sentient status of animals, both domesticated and wild has a massive impact: to comply with what we know brings a responsibility to the changes we must make in the way we think about ourselves, the way we think about animals and the way we care for and treat them.

A mockery

When the UK leaves the EU in 2019, along with Brexit will go the recognised sentient status of animals in the UK. How you feel about this decision will depend on your own beliefs and traditions and whether or not you have an awareness and acceptance of animals as sentient beings.

The UK has long been considered a leader in animal welfare; that leadership will become a mockery after Brexit when we will no longer own secured recognition that animals are sentient beings.

I have, for some time, been a facilitator of changing the way we think about ourselves, and the animals we share our lives with based on their scientifically proven sentient status.

If you’re not entirely sure what animal sentience is and its implications for them as non-human beings, I urge you to seriously consider the following:

Simply imagine an animal you share your life with becoming a clone of the human being that you are, with all the emotions that you feel – the sorrow of losing a loved one, the joy of being with friends and family, the fear, the pain, the worry – everything that you feel emotionally is only equal to that felt by non-human animals.

Solid evidence

There is considerably more to human beings and animals than meets the eye and all scientifically proven to exist. Hundreds of scientific studies have provided solid evidence that animals share the same kinds of emotions and motivations that we do.

We are more alike than you might possibly imagine which is why it is imperative that animals are afforded equal respect and recognition.

Here, I would like to point out that in taking away the sentient status of ‘animals’, we humans would, to all intents and purposes, also lose sentient status, which theoretically means we too would not be recognised as having feelings and emotions. Why?

Because we are animals too!

Charles Darwin stressed that variations among species are differences only in their degree rather than their kind. Scientists describe virtually all living things as animal or plant.

What gives humans the right?

What gives one species of animal the right to take away the sentient status of another simply because the species – in this case, all non-humans, is unable to stand up and be counted.

Ask yourself, “As an animal do I recognise myself as a sentient being who thinks, feels and has emotions? If the answer is “Yes”, you must also recognise all other species of animal as sentient beings.

We must do all we can to ensure that the sentient status of animals in the UK and its welfare implications remain in favour of all non-human animals. We must also work to ensure animals globally are protected under the wing of sentient status.

Non-human animals will fight for their young; they will fight for their lives. They protect and nurture – just like humans.

The Cambridge Declaration on Consciousness

The Cambridge Declaration on Consciousness was publicly announced on July 7, 2012, at Cambridge University in the UK! The group of scientists wrote, “Convergent evidence indicates that non-human animals have the neuroanatomical, neurochemical, and neurophysiological substrates of conscious states along with the capacity to exhibit intentional behaviours. Consequently, the weight of evidence indicates that humans are notunique in possessing the neurological substrates that generate consciousness. Non-human animals, including all mammals and birds, and many other creatures, including octopuses, also possess these neurological substrates.” This evidence speaks volumes!

It is only our human traits, intelligence and the ability to speak that separates us from all other animals.

What makes humans so afraid and insecure that we must destroy what we don’t understand? Are we afraid that non-humans intend to take over the world? A ‘Planet of the Apes’ scenario perhaps?

Fact – Animals are good for our health

It is now accepted that animals ARE good for our health. Studies show that:

Humans living with animals make fewer visits to the GP and have less need for medication than those who don’t share their lives with animals.

People who have human or animal support such as a dog, recover better after, for example, a heart attack than those without that support.

Petting an animal increases mood, improving brain chemicals like oxytocin and serotonin that act as neurotransmitters in the brain, and play a vital role in our wellbeing.

Having animals around has also been shown to increase pain tolerance and quicker wound healing, lower blood pressure and stress as well as helping Alzheimer sufferers, and those with cancer.

Those of us who share our lives with other animals know first hand how soothing they are to the mind, body, and spirit. As sentient beings they consciously comfort and protect us; they play a vital role in our lives.

In whatever guise they come, the unconditional love that animals bring is incredibly healing. Animals are far more valuable to us than any counselor or self-help book in helping us to discover who we truly are as humans.

We have ample scientific facts

We have ample scientific facts that confirm non-human animals as sentient beings. How can humans take it upon themselves to constantly exile anything they don’t understand to the waste bin, particularly when there is clear evidence to contradict their ignorance and shallow minds?

I wonder how many humans are reading this who share their lives with animals and yet are blissfully unaware of who those non-humans truly are.

It is very clear to those of us who take the time to look past the physical animal that non-human animals have consciousness.

However, there are those who choose not to believe its existence because it makes it easier to do things to other animals, without concerning themselves with the fact that the animal will be suffering in some way. Countless animals continue to suffer in the name of research, education, entertainment, food, and clothing.

We are not exceptional

How can humans be so pompous as to believe that we are exceptional in our sentience? Is it not enough that we take away the freedom and lives of what many consider ‘lesser beings’? It is time to stop pretending that we don’t know if other animals are sentient; the scientific facts are overwhelmingly evident. Ignorance is not bliss; it is downright disrespectful to every non-human on our planet.

Dictionary definition of ‘animal’:

able to perceive or feel things.

Outdated opinions and beliefs

Our aim must be to wipe out outdated opinions and beliefs urgently on behalf of the animals we share our planet with.

To the 313 MP’s who have betrayed non-human animals due to your own ignorance and agenda’s, shame on you! With an estimated 54 million domesticated animals currently being cared for in the UK, don’t expect the animal caring population of the UK or indeed the planet, to take this lying down. Your actions are abominable and misguided! I respectfully urge you to re-think.

It is vital that we all make an effort on behalf of those who continue to go unheard. I will, in the first instance contact my local MP and will take it from there. May I suggest that you do the same. If you feel strongly about this issue then please let the voice of the animals in your life be heard through you. If you’re sitting on the fence, please delve into the freely available evidence online. If you share your life with any species of animal you have an obligation to stand up for them. Sign a petition. Come on, let’s do this! The animal kingdom needs our help and it needs it urgently.

If you have ever wondered what the animals in your life need and how you can help them, then this is it. This is the most powerful gift you can give to them – the gift of being equal to human animals.

If you are sitting on the fence, take a look inside my Facebook group page, ‘Animal Intuitive Dynamics’ where you will find free information in the form of PDF’s and videos that describe animal sentience and its implications in the way we must care for them.

You can also find me on my Facebook Business Page Come on; let’s join forces and show the un-educated how wrong they are!

Please share this blog as far and wide and possible; be conscious of your thought based intention to finally bring recognition and justice to our non-human counterparts.

Is Anna Sewell’s fact based Novel still ahead of its time?

A little over one hundred and twenty years ago, Anna Sewell penned the novel Black Beauty based on her personal experiences, and the cruelty of horses that she witnessed at the hands of their handlers.

Forcing the head up was fashionable in the carriage horse in those days. These days, it is common to see the head placed wherever the rider feels it is appropriate for ultimate control and effect.

Although many of us have ditched outdated traditions and beliefs as we become more aware and open to the sentient status of horses and their conscious awareness, there are those who continue with the beliefs and traditions they grew up with.

My equestrian guide- Horse Riding in the 21st Century was once likened to the novel Black Beauty because the content, based on my own experiences and of witnessing human dominance over the horse, has echoes of that penned by Anna Sewell all those years ago.

Ignore scientific research

The equestrian governing bodies are painfully slow in their acknowledgement and acceptance of scientific research that confirms the detriment to horses through the use of harsh bits, overly tight nosebands, spurs, and whips, and of course our brute strength. I would go so far as to say that the gadgets used now are far harsher and debilitating to the horse than they ever were.

Cherry picking

Back in 2014, I and my colleagues, as part of the CHOICE campaign (a campaign for the choice to ride bitless in competition), attended a meeting at the BHS Headquarters that included delegates from the British Horse Society, British Dressage, the FEI, and WHW.

In spite of having requested a meeting due to the welfare concerns of bitted horses, the FEI delegate strongly advised that we did not mention the word ‘welfare’, to do so would bring the meeting to an end; he made it clear that the meeting was based on choice and nothing more.The same delegate also advised our attending campaign team that he could choose to ignore scientific evidence of any strength if he wished to do so. I guess the silence of his colleagues was confirmation of their agreement with him.

Are they so steeped in tradition and outdated beliefs that they’re afraid of change?

Research is vital to our understanding of animals. Scientific evidence has proven their sentient status as beings who have the ability to think, feel – physically and emotionally, and, suffer pain just like humans.

Why do researchers spend time, effort and finance on helping humans to grow in their knowledge of animals if we can whimsically cherry pick the fruits of their labours, particularly when it affects the plight of horses and the learning processes of humans? I am not talking about an inanimate object that may or may not improve the quality of our lives; I am talking about living, breathing, feeling animals whose lives and well-being are at our mercy.

It is the responsibility of all humans who share their lives with animals to leave 20th-century perceptions and ideals behind and to embrace the science and knowledge that sits at our fingertips. Yet here we are, years later with continuing debates on bitting and deciding the level at which the pressure of the noseband constitutes a welfare concern.

Is scientific evidence not worth the paper it is written on?

I recently read the British Horse magazine article about the BHS welfare discussion at this year’s Royal International Horse Show regarding the fitting of bits and nosebands. The panel included many industry experts from a variety of areas. It appears to me that concern was more about asking the question, “What can riders actually get away with before it becomes an equine welfare issue?” Doesn’t the scientific research already out there expose the point at which it becomes a welfare issue? Research continues; however, the results so far are surely a cause for concern?

At this point, I would like to show my appreciation to Milly Shand of The Concordia Connection – Thoughtful Equestrians, for her valuable presence at the meeting on my behalf and that of thousands of others.

Here’s an extract from the notes of Nigel Coupe’s input from the BHS welfare discussion … “We also did a lot of testing without a noseband and the minute you take the noseband off, you lose part of your control. At the top level you need the control, otherwise you can’t be safe and then it becomes a welfare issue for the rider as well as the horse. Sometimes things get taken out of context -you wouldn’t necessarily ride with that bit or noseband if you were just riding around the lanes, but if you’re competing in Rio you need that extra level of control.

So, my question is – “To what extent will competitors go to ensure their safety and CONTROL above the horse’s welfare as they are pushed further and further?”

Copycat

The subject of education and training was discussed. Yogi Breisner – trainer and coach said – “In my opinion, the problem comes at the lower levels, where horses can quite happily perform to what those riders want, even when they are in a little bit of pain. It is at this level where the need for education comes in. As coaches, it is our responsibility to ensure that a horse’s tack fits and it is sound. I think the BHS, together with the other BEF member bodies, has a responsibility to address this.”

I fully agree where the responsibility lies. My concern is that trainers, coaches, teachers can deliver only the knowledge they possess. The knowledge acquired at the lower levels will have usually been passed down from those teachers who are at least on the first rung of the ladder. The knowledge they pass down is the same knowledge they have gleaned from those of ‘higher rank’.

Much of the BHS teaching is out of date and is proving to be more and more detrimental to horses as the open-minded among us learn more about them.

I am under no illusion that the meeting is a massive step for those who have sheltered under traditionalism and I am fully aware of the meaning – ‘from small acorns grow..’

I accept that the discussion was specifically focused on bits and nosebands. However, it is crucial that the topic – as with other areas that tend to be dissected within their own niche, is no longer treated as a separate entity. Ill fitting bits and nosebands do not only have the ability to inflict pain and physical injury, they have the potential to cause deep set emotional issues that if left unaddressed, can result in physical ailments which are then very often misdiagnosed as behavioural and health issues.

Merely showing someone how to ‘correctly’ fit a bit or a noseband may lessen the discomfort; giving an in-depth explanation of the reasons behind it that goes even deeper than the physical detriment aspects is crucial. We now know that there is far more to horses (and all other animals) than the physical animal who stands before us; they are energetic beings – just like us. Regrettably only the open-minded currently acknowledge and embrace the existence of the energetic horse.

However, the re-education would necessitate outside influence with strong emphasis on humans and horses as energetic beings.

Make the unfamiliar, familiar

Those steeped in traditional ways and beliefs will consider its existence too way out there. Positive changes will come about only when the educators of the equestrian governing bodies are willing to enhance their own knowledge by embracing the existence of the innate internal energy systems of humans and animals. How we affect those energy systems is of great importance in the training and care of horses.

It is often difficult for the human mind to become familiar with the unfamiliar because its job is to keep the human safe. It is our job as humans to grow in our knowledge. We have a duty to embrace ways that may be new to us but are a natural part of us and all animals.

REIKI – now a household name. It is accepted in mainstream medicine. Yet, in 2012 when I qualified as a Reiki Master Teacher, science had not yet officially recognised its existence. It was still pretty hush hush in many areas. Only those who were susceptible to its energy recognised the gift in it.

More and more of us are opening up to new ways. It has been a long time coming, but its here, and its here to stay. We embrace who we and our horses truly are and move forward into better relationships, deeper bonds, and willing horses, or we fear and ridicule the unknown and get left behind.

Horse riding in the 21st Century

Meanwhile.. the equestrian guide, ‘Horse Riding in the 21st Century’ – discover the route to your success’, created in 2015, and reprinted in August 2017 with new and updated science evidenced information will empower the reader to consider a mindful and holistic approach to riding and caring for horses that will allow them to remain in the saddle of a pain and fear free horse. Check it out on my website https://www.avissenior.com or on Amazon where it has a ‘read inside me facility’.

Review by Jenny Rolfe – Classical Dressage Trainer:

“I found Horse Riding in the 21st Century to be a book which covers a vast field of information to assist every rider to better understand their horse. There is a chapter on tack and tack fitting which is clearly explained to help the rider from every level.

The importance of balance for the rider and how this may be achieved is also described very well.

From the beginning of the book, Avis makes it clear that our awareness, communication, and power to listen and observe our horses are at the heart of our relationship. There is a wealth of help here, within this book for the reader to more fully understand how they will affect their horse on every level.

This is really a great book which asks the reader to dig deep from within and become more thoughtful within every aspect of training. This book gives a deep insight and a thoughtful perspective, which is much needed today.

I am so pleased that Horse Riding in the 21st Century is proving so valuable.”

I speak my truth

I imagine that, if you’ve read any of my previous posts you’ll know that I don’t beat around the bush; I do though speak my truth – from the heart and on behalf of those incredible horses who now have recognised sentient status.

I write this post from experience and ongoing personal growth. I came up through the ranks of traditionalism. I became a bit of a renegade, always fighting the horse’s corner because most people I came across were certainly not doing their horses any favours. I, on the other-hand, was doing the very best for the horses in my care – so there! Behavioural issues were extremely rare, and the shared bond was amazing – ahem!

A scrummy deep straw bed, the best nightie any equine could wish for, new shoes every six weeks; hell, one pair a year was about all I could bring myself to buy for moi. No cheap course mixes for my horses. Of course, my horses were happy, why wouldn’t they be?

I thought I could change the world

Horses have been the most valuable of teachers for me over the years; I’ve always made a point of passing their teachings on to others who were open minded enough to listen. I honestly thought I could ‘change the world’, well at least change the views of other equestrians in making them see that most of our dealings with horses were not in alignment with the species. The responses, on the whole weren’t great! Most people were simply not ready to steer clear of tradition.

It took many years for me to realise that I was no different to the people whose minds I was trying to influence. My mind was still stuck in traditionalism and the beliefs I grew up with, albeit to a lesser degree than most I came into contact with. I wasted no time in delving deeper and further afield in my quest to learn and to grow, taking into account extremely slow growing scientific evidence, and more importantly my equine teachers.

Tradition no longer serves you

Years have passed; I’m part of a now fast growing community of like-minded equestrians who, like me, want to change the world. It’s working – slowly but surely. Science is now rapidly providing evidence as to why traditional ways and beliefs no longer serve us or the animals we care for. There are many who still refuse to accept there is a better way than traditional and old beliefs, and just as many who are afraid of new ways.

You must not remain stagnant

So, I ask you, “How well do you understand your horse?”

I ask that you ponder the following because if you remain stagnant in traditional ways you will never accomplish a true bond with the horses in your care. You will never fully cater for his wants, needs and welfare considerations.

In order to have that truly successful relationship you strive for with the horses in your care, you must first understand that:

Anything the horse does that you might consider unreasonable is in fact, the horse just being a horse.

His brain is tiny in comparison to his body. However, the assumption that the horse is unable to think and feel has been blown apart by science.

He hears sounds that you are unable to hear; he will hear something approaching long before you see it. When he warns you of the noise he hears through his body language and behaviour such as raising his head and planting his feet, you might misinterpret it as disobedience and stubbornness because you’re unable to give any other explanation for it.

His eyesight differs from your eyesight. Because his eyes are set on the side of his head, his peripheral vision gives him a completely different perspective to that of your own. His monocular vision gives him the tendency to spook due to his large eyes being sensitive to the slightest movement; he has blind spots – one of them being directly in front of him which is why you should never approach him from the front. He trusts that you will safely guide him over the obstacle he must jump but is unable to see as he reaches the take off point?

The horse’s digestive system is designed to trickle feed; it is designed to forage grasses and herbs. Yet we treat most herbs as weeds and poison them. We limit the horse’s grazing and feed him processed cereals that are difficult to digest.

He is naturally a herd animal, yet we isolate him.

He is naturally a roamer, yet we box him in.

His head and neck are designed to forage from the ground which assists in natural nasal drainage, yet we hang hay nets.

The interdental bars of the mouth were not designed to accommodate any type of bit; yet a double bridle is common, as are more devilish contraptions of ‘control’.

The back was designed for speed and I don’t mean racing!

The skeletal frame along his length was designed to protect the internal organs, muscles, and hold in the stomach contents; yet we place the weight of a saddle on his back followed by our own weight.

He is naturally barefoot, yet we nail iron to the hooves.

Stomach churner

As I began to work on my self-development under the guidance of the only teachers I would trust, I began to notice the change of mood, the tiniest of movements- the stance, the subtlest behaviours, the slight flick of the tail, the crease above the eye, the ear position and so on as I went about every aspect of my care and handling of horses. Wow, what an eye opener! What a stomach churner! How could I have not seen or felt the pressures, restrictions, constraints, human emotion and beliefs I was forcing on these animals who had the power and strength to destroy me if they so wished yet who would rather accept them so that I might learn the lessons required of me.

Don’t shoot the messenger!

As I said earlier, I write this as someone who has experienced where you might be right now. The point of my message is not to advise that you down tools, stop riding, find 50 acres of grazing, or to beat yourself up. I did the latter for quite some time and it only delayed my development. My message is one of encouragement. Take each of the 12 points I’ve raised and do some research on how you can improve and tweak the elements that will benefit first the horse, then you. There are elements that may take a time to change or tweak; for example deciding to go barefoot will take some research and advice from your regular farrier and a barefoot expert. The wisest people to question are those who actually care for barefoot horses.

You may feel you’re not ready to seek changes in particular elements yet. So, pick just one aspect. Even that one will improve well-being. I urge you not to remain stagnant.

You may think you have a good relationship; I don’t doubt that. But doesn’t an understanding relationship and deep bond sound great? While you’ve been focusing on your ‘good’ relationship, the horses in your care have been prompting you towards a deeper bond; you will only achieve it when you are able to listen and act upon it with the knowledge and feel required.

Beyond your wildest dreams

You may have expectations of the horse that he is unable to fulfil unless you fully understand him as the intelligent sentient being he is. As carers of animals, it is our duty to care for and understand them on their natural scientifically proven energetic level, a level that goes far deeper than the physical animal you see daily. When you understand the horses in your care from their energetic core, you will also understand why your care and handling of them must change.

When you accept there is a better way, the bond with your horse will develop beyond your wildest dreams.

If you’d like to know more, please visit my website www.avissenior.com, my Facebook Business Page ‘Avis Senior BHSAI at Animal Intuitive Holistics, or visit ‘Animal Intuitive Dynamics’ (A.I.D) – closed Facebook Group where you’ll find useful information. There’s a short 4 part training video that describes animals on the all important energetic level. It’s free to watch so take a look; you have nothing to lose but probably far more to gain than you might realise.

Every which way

I’m all for looking at things every which way rather than offering black and white answers based on opinion, belief and tradition when it comes to discussing various topics.

However, when it comes to science-based evidence regarding the bitting of horses, there are no ‘every which ways’, there is only one way – the right way.

Rules, rules and more rules

There are various reasons why we consider we should, or should not bit a horse, based on rules of competition, our preference, our confidence levels, our trust or lack of trust in the horse, and our beliefs.

Until recently, if I were to, in my role as a teacher, give my reasons for and against bitting, they would have been based on my knowledge, my uses of both bitted and bitless bridles, my preferences and my personal beliefs.

Have you noticed that amongst the reasons offered above, there is no consideration for the horse’s preferences, his confidence levels, or his trust (or lack of trust) in humans?

The hard facts

This article bears no relation to the comparison of the detriment caused by both bitted and bitless bridles when in the wrong hands. Here, I talk about scientific hard facts that should -indeed must – take priority over our ego and ancient beliefs and traditions.

In 2000 Dr Robert Cook FRCVS., PhD created and published an article on his completion of scientific research on the detriment caused to the horse by bitting.

Work, rest and play

We recognise that the horse can be at rest and eat, or he can participate in some kind of exercise, whether playing with his friends, having a schooling session or even galloping across country. We don’t see him doing both at the same time. It’s not possible for the horse to eat and exercise at the same time. However, having a bit in his mouth forces the horse to feel the effects of both activities simultaneously.

As soon as the bit is placed in the horse’s mouth, his soft palate rises to allow the process of the intake of food. This elevation inhibits his breathing; this, in turn, can affect his performance.

Because the brain thinks the horse has food in his mouth, the production of saliva also begins.

Suffocation, heart failure and death

Later research by Dr Cook shows that during strenuous exercise such as racing, the horse’s lips are sealed creating a vacuum in the mouth to maximise the air flow through the nostrils. The bit in the mouth breaks the lip seal destroying the vacuum which in turn releases the soft palate from its ‘locked down’ position. The airway collapses with following suffocation, waterlogged lungs and heart failure, leading to the death of the horse.

You will find the published documents online, ‘A solution to respiratory and other problems caused by the bit’, by W Robert Cook FRCVS, PhD, and an article by Horsetalk.co.nz dated November 21st, 2015.

Unless we specifically search for this information we won’t find it in mainstream magazines or training that promote bits. You certainly won’t hear the truth about bitted bridles from the manufacturers and retailers.

A little over one year ago, I discussed my findings with the Chief Executive of the British Horse Society, a charity which credits itself on working to ensure the absolute welfare of horses, only to be told that it was the opinion of an advisor that the inhibited breathing caused by the bit was not sufficient to warrant any concern. As far as I’m concerned the slightest of inhibited breathing is a major concern.

There is a grave concern for the welfare of horses. We must put the horse’s absolute welfare first and foremost. We must all go forward and embrace scientific evidence. Will you put your conscience before your preference for the sake of the horse? Will you challenge the governing bodies? More importantly, will you challenge your traditions and beliefs.

I will no longer tip-toe around governing bodies who advocate the welfare of the horse publicly and yet pick out only the pieces of scientific evidence that allow the continuing abuse of horses for glory and gratification.

Animal Communication is the sending & receiving of information between animal and human telepathically, & interpreted by the human via intuition.

Believe or believe it not, you have the power of telepathy and intuition within you. It’s a vital element in connecting with animals on a level where they can convey their needs and wants clearly. It removes the need for making assumptions, second guessing, and dealing with symptoms. In using this method of communication you are able to come to agreements with an animal, making life easier for all concerned.

Sadly, animals often go unheard because our thoughts and emotions get in the way.

Below is my latest experience with Animal Communication and the gorgeous chap in the photo, with permission given by his guardian to post my findings of the sessions and the client’s testimonial in the hope that you will be inspired to re-open the natural gift you were born with. This is an example of what you can achieve if you have the belief and the commitment. It can be life changing for you and the animals in your care.

I received an enquiry for an Animal Communication session from a lady called Pat, referred by Jo Huntsman, an expert Kinesiologist who had helped Harry to settle into his new home with Pat by means of a Kinesiology session.

Pat was at her wits end with Harry’s uncontrollable habits and behaviour. He would also frantically bark when left on his own.

His history, up until around 18 months old was a mystery; Pat’s daughter had taken him in from a local rescue centre in 2011 where Harry had been aged at around 18 months old.

He remained with Pat’s daughter and family, where he was given the best care and attention, until recently when it was agreed that Harry would live with Pat and her husband due to personal family reasons. Pat advised me that prior to her daughter taking him in, Harry had been found roaming the streets resulting in his time in the Rescue Centre.

When I connected with Harry from a photo for the first time at Pat’s request, it became apparent that the issues were many, and included a mixture of blocked energies stemming right back to puppyhood, behaviours due to a lack of proper learning processes as a puppy and generally throughout his life, and natural traits relating to the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed.

In spite of his abrupt and straightforward manner towards me, Harry felt quite disillusioned, misunderstood and never quite knew how to behave. Boundaries were alien to him due to having insufficient positive human direction and positive input while Harry was a puppy and as he grew into an adult.

I felt he had never had any constructive empathetic direction, only stern commands. Pat confirmed later that abrupt commands were necessary because Harry would not listen to nice quiet ones. She was desperate to help Harry and told me that she hoped it was a case of misunderstanding between dog and humans. Trainers had come and gone with little success.

During my first connection with Harry, he gave me the impression he had lots to get off his chest, but right now was not the time. He did take up my offer of sending him healing energy. After a little while, Harry began to slowly release some anger and frustration while I supported him remotely.

Pat had asked me to look into various behaviour concerns she had about Harry, for example, the need to steal clothes and shoes and take them to his bed; his obvious aggression towards cyclists, horse riders, joggers, children, and his refusal to do his business in the back garden.

Typically with animals suffering anxieties and vulnerability, Harry would sleep in a protective curl.

During my second connection with Harry, his energy had changed dramatically for the better; it was lighter, brighter and certainly calmer. He had processed a great deal and was now quite willing to talk to me. By asking specific questions of Harry, I was able to build a picture of Harry’s life as he gave me information telepathically.

By asking specific questions of Harry, I was able to build a picture of his life. As he gave me information, the negative energy surrounding his past physical and emotional abuse from being a puppy began to dissipate, helped along further by healing energy sent to him with an intention, that supported him in releasing more recent energy blocks.

Once the negative energy had been eliminated I was left with the bare Rhodesian Ridgeback breed – the particular traits of the breed, and the negative behaviours due to a lack of direction which until this point had been misinterpreted by his family and outsiders as disobedience.

Harry made two agreements with me:

He now felt confident enough to do his business in the back garden;

He would be calmer around his guardian and not rush around.

The two agreements were quite easy for him to make because the reasons behind the issue of not wanting to do his business in the garden, and his anxieties and frustrations around being with humans no longer existed. The healing abilities of the communication and universal energy had wiped them out.

A third agreement that Pat had requested of Harry was refused by him and was not up for discussion. The issue here was around seeking out and attempting to chase the cats along one of his walking routes. This particular issue was not related to any of his emotional issues; this was a game that Harry liked to play, it excited him. It is a typical pastime of many dogs, and as animals, like us, have free will, they can decide not to abide by our wishes.

Pat, Harry’s guardian is loyal to him; throughout my work with Harry and since, she has implemented and achieved amazing results from the advice and exercises I gave her that enable her to work with Harry on the deeper emotional level rather than the symptomatic physical level.

Below is Pat’s feedback.

‘I contacted Avis Senior Animal Communicator at the recommendation of Kinesiologist Jo Huntsman on completion of her therapy session with Harry with the aim of helping him to settle into his new home with me.

After connecting with Harry, Avis began to explain his behaviours and anxieties in ways that I could easily understand. She was able to fill us in on the 18 months or so before Harry entered our family. I understand now the reason why Harry was anxious about doing his business in our back garden – a garden that triggered memories of the first 18 months or so of his life chained to a kennel in a small yard where he was also forced to do his business, and then physically abused when it had to be cleaned up.

Harry was true to his agreement with Avis and he did his business in the back garden!

He is far more relaxed. When resting after his first connection with Avis, Harry actually slept on his back with his legs in the air. He had never done that before!

Avis has opened our eyes to the fact that we hadn’t been taking enough emotional notice of Harry. Her comprehensive notes and updates have helped us so much and I do understand a lot more.

The exercise Avis taught us to bring our minds and our hearts into the present time with Harry has worked enormously and he has calmed down a lot.

Avis has also given us a good understanding of the breed and that many of his traits that we considered issues will remain because they are associated with the breed and species; she assures us though that they can be toned down to an acceptable level with help from a professional who has an understanding of the breed, ethical learning processes in behaviour, and the emotional levels of animals.

Life with Harry has become much easier since Avis made her first connection with him. I now know that we humans have issues like Harry, and like Harry, we must also learn how to release them.’